Crystal Palace are preparing for a ‘big push’ for €80m sports star Ousmane Diomande
Crystal Palace are reportedly looking to make a move for Ousmane Diomande this summer as they renew their interest in the Sporting CP defender.
According to a report from Portuguese Outlet Record (via Sport Witness), the Eagles have identified the 22-year-old as their main defensive target for the 2026-27 campaign.
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Crystal Palace are ready to make a big move for Ousmane Diomande
The South London club previously tried to lure the Ivorian to Selhurst Park last year, and are now ready to make a “hard push” to land their man.
The urgency of the search comes from the recent departure of former captain Marc Guehi, who completed a £20 million move to Manchester City in the January window.
Guehi’s exit left a huge void in Oliver Glasner’s back line, leading the manager to publicly voice his frustrations with the club’s senior management.
Diomande, who is a quick defender and plays at center back, is regarded as an intelligent defender.
Despite signing a contract extension in Lisbon last month, tying him to Sporting until 2030, the record suggests the renewal was more a step to protect his market value than a guarantee of his stay.
Although his release clause remains at €80m (£69m), Sporting’s board reportedly sees the need to make transfer money this summer to fund infrastructure projects, potentially opening the door to talks below that figure.
Crystal Palace face stiff competition from Premier League rivals
Palace will not be able to run at the defender. Newcastle United is reported to have raised the level of looking at the team in Portugal, despite being hampered by the thigh injury that kept Diomande out of action at the beginning of this season.
In addition, Arsenal have been among the clubs that are most interested in the player. Both the Gunners and Chelsea said they contacted the player’s representatives last year, and are still monitoring his situation.
Having played 26 games for the Ivory Coast and experience in the Champions League, Diomande has long wanted to play in the Premier League.
Crystal Palace have had a disappointing campaign
Many expected Oliver Glasner’s side to go on to win the FA Cup last season and progress to the Premier League. Instead, the momentum has stalled.
The summer departures of key players, including Eberechi Eze, have weakened the squad, while the departure of Marc Guehi in January has added to their woes.
Glasner has expressed his frustration with the club’s ambitions, highlighting the growing uncertainty behind the scenes.
With Glasner confirming he will leave at the end of the season, the situation at Selhurst Park looks bleak.
Palace currently sit 13th in the Premier League and look set to miss out on European qualification, a setback that could prove decisive in their pursuit of promotion.
That uncertainty may end up influencing Diomande’s decision about joining the Eagles.
